Fundraisers will be needed when the Red Arrows appear over Sidmouth this month - to ensure they can return in 2017.
The town council underwrote last year’s £15,000 cost and some £6,000 was collected from the audience, but poor weather affected the RAF team’s display, so they waived their fee. The cash, plus £6,000 from businesses and £1,000 donated online, was used to secure this year’s display - kicking off Sidmouth Regatta at 6.30pm on Friday, August 26. Any money raised on the day will go towards bringing the Red Arrows back in 2017.
Sidmouth Chamber of Commerce has already appealed to its members to rattle their buckets, in recognition of the boost the display gives the town’s businesses. Collections are being organised by the Sidmouth Regatta Committee, which is hoping for 100 collectors to line The Esplanade. Residents willing to help should visit the Bedford Hotel at 5.30pm on the day, bringing proof of identity with their address on it.
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